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Firefighters continue to tackle significant wildfire near Bathgate

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was first alerted at 5.08pm on Wednesday, June 27.

Firefighters continue to work tirelessly to tackle a significant wildfire in the West Lothian area.

Around 50 firefighters and nine fire engines remain at the scene in Falla Hill Place in Fauldhouse on Friday, June 29.

After working throughout a second night, firefighters concentrate efforts on containing the fire which had taken hold of a 200 metre-wide area of woodland.

There are no casualties.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was first alerted at 5.08pm on Wednesday, June 27.

At its height, Operations Control had mobilised a total of 65 firefighters and 13 fire engines to the scene.

It emerged as a wildfire warning was issued across Scotland.

During last month’s warning, firefighters worked to extinguish a series of wildfires that swept across the Highlands and Islands as well as Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh.

Group Manager Mark Bryce said: “The crews have been working effectively throughout the night and we are continuing to stop further spreading of the fire.

“We will remain on scene for the rest of the day to extinguish it as soon as possible.

"I would like to express a sincere thank you to our crews on the ground and our firefighters in Operations Control for continuing to effectively co-ordinate our resources.

“I would also like to thank our partners and the wider local community for their outstanding support.”

The wider wildfire warning across Scotland remains in place until Monday, July 2.

SFRS Area Manager Bruce Farquharson is the chair of the Scottish Wildfire Forum.

He said: "Grass and wildfires are a common risk at this time of year when warmer weather dries out vegetation – especially dead winter foliage – which offers an ample fuel source.

"Just one heat source can cause it to ignite and if the wind changes direction even the smallest fire can spread uncontrollably and devastate entire hillsides."

He added: "A great many people will be enjoying the outdoors in the good weather this weekend, we urge everyone to make sure that they don’t increase the chance of wildfire – be aware of the risks and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.